Federal election could spoil Harper’s royal wedding plans

They’re unlikely to be the only prominent guests preventing the bride and groom from finalizing their guest list, but Stephen and Laureen Harper’s attendance at the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton is doubtful.

A source in the Prime Minister’s Office says Harper’s presence at the April 29th wedding at Westminster Abbey is “unlikely, in the event of an election” — an eventuality that looks all but certain after all three opposition party leaders said they won’t support the budget tabled on Tuesday.

Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff said Wednesday he will introduce a confidence motion, to be debated Friday, which, if passed, would bring down the minority Conservative government and kick off an election campaign.

With a minimum 36-day campaign period mandated, the most likely election date at this point is May 2, making it difficult for Harper to leave the country to attend what many have dubbed “the wedding of the century” three days before Canadians would head to the polls.

“We are hopeful the opposition will reconsider their decision to force a reckless and unnecessary election,” the PMO source said.